Yunyi Zhang

I interned at Geolytix, which is a company specialising in location planning, providing bespoke data-driven solutions and strategies for retail clients worldwide, to optimise their business and network.

I applied for this internship as my interest in spatial data and location planning grew through the GIS course I attended at University of Leeds. My duties mainly included creating and updating datasets of retail stores across Asia, as well as mall based web research. It gave me an opportunity to take responsibility early on because further analysis was based on the datasets produced. I engaged in various projects and completed different tasks, through which I advanced my professional skills, gained first-hand experience, as well as insight into the industry while working with super friendly and supportive people. It was an enriching experience that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Studying GIS at the University of Leeds improved my competency to start working and thrive. The modules were designed to not only equip us with practical skills that could be applied to a professional career, but also gave a relevant insight into real-world location planning and analysis. I found it much easier to grasp new concepts, work efficiently with large volume of data and understand different drivers of retail store performance. Besides, I also gained transferable skills at university that helped me in the workplace such as initiative, time-management and the ability to adapt quickly.

In addition, through my job search and application, university professors and career centre advisors provided invaluable advice and support which I was very grateful for. I also had access to sufficient resources at university including career guides and vacancies that were helpful for career starters.